Is the Dentist Responsible for a Failed Crown? Understanding Your Rights & Options

Reviewed by Dr. Joe Dental, DDS

(Dental professional, for accuracy and trustworthiness)

Table of Contents

• Negligence and Bad Care
• Material Problems (Dentist’s Mistake)
• Clear Warranty/Guarantee

• Patient-Related Things
• Tooth Changes
• Things That Could Not Be Expected
• Lab Problems (Without Dentist’s Mistake)

Introduction: My Story With a Failed Crown

Let me start with a little honesty—I’ve had my ups and downs with dental crowns. Crowns have saved my teeth from breaking, hidden some chips, and fixed my smile more than once. But not all of my crowns have lasted as long as I hoped. I’ve had broken crowns, loose crowns, and even a crown that fell out when I was just eating a sandwich. And yes, I’ve thought: was it my dentist’s fault or did I do something wrong?

If you’re here, you might be thinking the same thing. Dental crowns are expensive, so it hurts when they fail and you want answers. Over the years, after my own problems and many talks with dental pros like Dr. Joe Dental, I’ve learned when a dentist is at fault, when they’re not, and what you should do if your crown fails. So, let’s get started.

When Is a Dentist Typically Responsible for a Failed Crown?

This is the main thing most people want to know. In my experience, dentists are responsible if the crown failed because they used bad technique, made obvious mistakes, or took easy shortcuts. But the answer isn’t always simple.

Negligence and Bad Care

A failed crown isn’t always the dentist’s fault—but sometimes, it really is. Here’s what I found out:

Bad Tooth Shaping

Once, my crown failed a little over a year after I got it. A new dentist took an X-ray and showed me sharp, rough edges left from shaping my tooth. Dr. Joe Dental told me that a tooth has to be smoothed and trimmed just right for a crown to stay on. If there are edges or the tooth isn’t the right shape, germs can get in and the crown probably won’t last long.

Bad Molds/Impressions

One time, my crown just never fit right. It always rocked and made my gums sore. Turned out, my first dentist rushed the mold, and it was full of spit. Crowns only work if they fit well, which depends on how good the mold is. If the dentist messes that up, no lab can fix it.

Using Wrong Materials or Not Telling You

Not all crowns are made the same. One dentist tried to switch my requested ceramic crown for a cheaper one without telling me. If your dentist picks low-quality materials, or doesn’t get your full say-so, that’s a warning sign. Dr. Joe Dental said you always need to be told what’s being put in your mouth.

Messing Up When Gluing or Cementing

I once had a crown come off less than a month after it was put on. This shouldn’t happen. I learned that putting on a crown needs careful work. If spit gets in the way, or not enough glue is used, the crown won’t stick and will fall off.

Not Fixing Gaps or Bad Contacts

Sometimes, the space between crown and tooth (the margin) isn’t sealed. That lets germs get in. Gaps, teeth that don’t touch right, or overhanging crowns usually mean the dentist didn’t check well enough.

Not Giving Good Aftercare or Checking Up

A good dentist should tell you how to look after your crown, explain signs to watch for, and check their work over time. They shouldn’t just put it in and forget about you.

The main thing? If your dentist skipped steps, used cheap stuff, or ignored normal rules, they might be responsible for your failed crown.

Material Problems (Dentist’s Mistake)

Most dentists don’t make crowns in their office—they order them from dental labs. If a dentist picks a weak or low-rated lab, or doesn’t check the finished crown, you might end up with a bad crown. Dental labs like a good crown and bridge lab should be careful and do strong work, but the dentist is still the one choosing the lab and double-checking things.

Clear Warranty/Guarantee

Sometimes the dentist’s responsibility is written down. I once had a dentist who promised crowns would last three years if I did check-ups. If the crown broke from normal use, they fixed it for free. Even if nothing is written down, regular customer laws may help you—that just means “the work should last a reasonable amount of time.” If the crown broke too quick and you had a promise, the dentist should stick to their word.

When Might the Dentist NOT Be Responsible?

Of course, there are times the dentist did everything right but the crown broke for reasons nobody could stop. Here’s what I found out:

Patient-Related Things

This is tough to admit, but it happens. If you don’t brush or floss, new cavities can show up around or under the crown. I know a guy who broke a perfectly good crown by using his teeth to open pistachios. If you grind your teeth (bruxism), you can wreck any crown super fast. Dentists will tell you to wear a night guard if they notice these habits—if you don’t, you take the risk.

Other examples:

• Skipping check-ups or not following instructions
• Eating sticky candy or hard stuff soon after a new crown
• Biting your nails or chewing pens

Tooth Changes

Crowns cover your tooth, but can’t stop everything. The tooth root or gum might shrink over time, or a tooth with a root canal might crack underneath. Sometimes, even with great care, your real tooth just changes.

Examples:

• The root cracking under the crown (not because of bad prepping)
• Gums going back over time
• New dental problems showing up later

Things That Could Not Be Expected

Crowns are not forever. Sometimes, something weird just happens, like the nerve dying or your body not liking the crown material. Sometimes a crown just gets old and wears out. Most last 5–15 years, and after that it’s like keeping an old car—trouble is more likely.

Lab Problems (Without Dentist’s Mistake)

Not every dental lab is great, but if your dentist picked a good one and sent good molds, but the crown was bad anyway, the blame isn’t the dentist’s. Labs that care about their work, like a good china dental lab, try to avoid mistakes, but once in a while, things slip through even if everyone tries hard.

Common Signs and Types of Crown Failure

How can you tell if your crown is in trouble? I’ve seen all the warning signs, and you should watch for:

Crown Coming Off or Feeling Loose

If you chew and the crown wiggles or even comes off in your mouth, that’s a big sign. It might be from weak glue, but also from long-term wear.

Breaking or Chipping

This happened to me after eating popcorn. You might see a crack or a piece missing, especially with ceramic crowns.

Ongoing Pain, Sensitive Tooth, or Gum Trouble

Crowns shouldn’t hurt. If biting or drinking is painful, or your gums around the crown look red or swollen, it could be infected or fitted wrong. See a dentist soon.

Cavities Around the Edge

Decay can start right where the crown meets your real tooth. This can happen if you don’t clean well or if the edge of the crown isn’t sealed.

Looks and Feel

Maybe your crown feels too big, the color looks weird, or your gums feel sore. Any changes from when it was first put in—like food getting stuck—should be checked.

Steps to Take if Your Dental Crown Fails

When a crown fails, it’s easy to panic—but here’s what I do, and it helps you stay in control.

1. Write Everything Down

Note what happened, when you noticed the problem, and what it felt like. If you still have the crown, take pictures of it and your tooth. Save any texts, emails, or notes.

2. Call Your Dentist Right Away

Don’t wait. A good dentist wants to see what happened and will try to fix it. Bring your notes and be clear on what you want. Ask for a straight answer.

3. Get a Second Opinion

If you don’t like the answer or feel ignored, see another dentist. In my experience, a fresh pair of eyes can spot things the first dentist missed.

4. Ask for Your Dental Records

You have a right to your records and X-rays. If you want to make a complaint, these are key proof. Ask for your copies and keep them safe.

5. Try to Sort Things Out

Here’s what I’ve done, and seen others do:

Talk to Your Dentist

Many dentists will redo the crown or refund you, especially if it failed soon after and it’s clearly their mistake. A friendly but firm ask can work well.

File a Complaint

If that doesn’t help, contact your State Dental Board. They look at if the dentist did their job as expected, and can tell the dentist to fix it.

Look for Mediation

Sometimes dental groups offer to help you and your dentist work out a solution, without court.

Talk to a Lawyer

If you think there was a big mistake and you really lost out, a lawyer is sometimes needed. But legal action takes time and money, so think it through.

Legal Things to Think About for a Failed Crown

Law stuff can look scary, but here’s what’s important.

Proving Dentist Did Wrong or Was Careless

To win a case, you need to show:

• The dentist was supposed to care for you (they were—they treated you)
• They didn’t do what most dentists would do in their place
• That mistake made your crown fail (sometimes you need a pro to say this)
• You had real harm: more bills, pain, or health problems

Dr. Joe Dental told me every case needs solid proof, not just bad luck.

Time Limits

Every state has a deadline for lawsuits, sometimes 1–3 years from when you noticed the problem. Don’t wait—see a lawyer soon if you plan to file.

Who Pays for the New Crown?

If the dentist was at fault, they should fix or replace the crown, usually for free. If you have insurance, check if it covers do-over work or a second opinion. But if it wasn’t the dentist’s fault, you might have to pay.

Preventing Dental Crown Failure

After all I’ve been through, stopping problems before they start is best. Here’s what helps:

Pick a Skilled and Trusted Dentist

Take your time and pick someone with a good history. Don’t just go for the cheapest. Dentists who work with quality labs, like those skilled in dental ceramics lab work or new tech, make a difference.

Keep Your Teeth Very Clean

Seriously—brush, floss, and use mouthwash every day, especially near your crown. Even the best crown won’t last if you don’t.

Go to Regular Check-Ups

Don’t skip your cleanings. Your dentist will spot early signs—like loose crowns or sore gums—before you do.

Wear a Nightguard for Teeth Grinding

If you grind your teeth, ask for a fitted nightguard from a good lab. I’ve used one for years and it’s saved my crowns.

Don’t Bite Hard Foods or Use Your Teeth as Tools

Crowns are strong, not unbreakable. Stay away from ice, nuts, or opening bottles with your teeth. Your teeth (and bank balance) will be happier.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long should a dental crown usually last?

A: Most last 5–15 years, sometimes longer, depending on material, how it was put in, and how you look after it.

Q: Will insurance pay to replace a failed crown?

A: Sometimes, especially if your crown lasted a decent time or failed for no good reason. Check your plan and call your insurer.

Q: Can I get my money back for a failed crown?

A: If the dentist promised it, or if it’s clearly their error, you might get a refund or free fix. Always talk about this before getting a crown.

Q: What does “standard of care” mean?

A: It’s the level of work and attention a normal dentist would give in the same kind of case. It protects you from poor work.

Conclusion: Knowing Your Rights and Next Steps for a Failed Crown

If your crown failed, I know it’s stressful, expensive, and can make you feel awkward. But don’t let it get you down—most times it can be fixed, and you have options.

From my experience, act fast: write down what happened, contact your dentist, and don’t be afraid to get another opinion. Sometimes it’s an easy fix; other times, you’ll need to stand up for yourself. Remember, dentists are people too—they make mistakes, but most want to help.

The biggest tip? Stay informed, take care of your teeth, and don’t put up with poor work. Your smile—and your peace of mind—are worth it. When you know what you can expect and jump on problems early, you won’t be caught out next time a crown causes trouble.

Reviewed for accuracy by Dr. Joe Dental, DDS.